How does TMS work for depression is the primary concern for patients struggling with treatment-resistant mental health conditions. As the number of treatment-resistant depression cases increases, new innovative treatments, including TMS, are effective options.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression treatment is a new, non-invasive form of therapy using electromagnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in hopes of improving mental health and neurological disorders. The FDA approves this treatment option, and it is a valid alternative treatment for people with depression who have not had successful results with antidepressants and therapy.
How Does TMS Therapy for Depression Work?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression has a high success rate for people with treatment-resistant depression. In a study published by The National Institute on Health, 30 TMS treatments of Deep TMS resulted in a 76.6% response rate and a 54.7% remission rate. Understanding the process is an essential step in treatment. TMS is an outpatient procedure in a clinic or hospital.
Preparation for the procedure includes removing items, like jewelry, that may be sensitive to magnets. Earplugs are essential to minimize the clicking sounds of the magnetic impulses. The patient is awake throughout the procedure, sitting in a comfortable chair. Measurements of the head determine the correct placement of the magnetic coil. After the technician places the coil above the front area of the brain, the treatment starts.
How does TMS work for depression, and how often are the treatments? Each treatment averages 30-60 minutes and includes hearing clicking sounds from the magnetic impulses. A slight tapping or knocking sensation is also felt throughout the procedure. After the procedure, there are no side effects, and regular activity can resume. Typically, this procedure is performed 5 times a week for 4-6 weeks, and results are highly effective.
How Safe is TMS Therapy?
How effective is TMS therapy for depression, and how safe is this form of treatment? Studies vary, but effectiveness rates are high. The FDA approval of this treatment states that the results outweigh any risks and yield a noninvasive therapy with no side effects. TMS therapy is beneficial for many forms of mental health conditions and chronic medical illnesses. Without the use of any anesthesia or medication, safety levels are very high.
Other approaches to treating treatment-resistant depression are available but not as safe as TMS. Ketamine and Spravato treatment options are available but can produce adverse side effects. The chance of misuse or abuse is always a possibility. Using these drugs must have constant supervision by a medical provider.
Risks and Side Effects
TMS involves some risks, and the procedure is only suitable for some. People who need to avoid TMS include those with deep brain stimulators, electrodes, neck or brain stents, aneurysm clips or coils, shrapnel or bullet pieces, facial tattoos with metallic inks, metal plates, cochlear implants, and permanent piercings. Other issues that may restrict the use of TMS are a history of epilepsy, taking stimulants, and having a medical condition that increases the risk of seizures. These risks revolve around metals negatively interacting with magnetic impulses.
How does TMS work for depression with so few side effects? Side effects are uncommon but do occur. The most severe side effect that occurs in 0.1% of patients is episodic seizures. Mania can occur, mainly in patients with bipolar disorder.
TMS complications often include the following:
- Mild headaches
- Lightheadedness
- Scalp and neck pain
- Facial twitching and tingling
- Sleepiness
- Altered cognition during treatment
How Effective is TMS Therapy for Depression?
Research supports a high percentage of positive results for those with treatment-resistant depression and bipolar depression 1 and 2. This treatment option is a significant alternative to medications and is groundbreaking.
The time frame for forward progress in symptoms is phenomenal. Within 4 to 6 weeks, improvement is generally noticeable and substantial. Mood regulation is positively affected quickly.
TMS and Anxiety
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression is also effective in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Anxiety symptoms are often the result of these mental health conditions.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is another condition TMS is effective for. Anxiety increases nerve cell activity in the prefrontal cortex, and TMS reduces activity in this area.
What To Expect After Treatment
How does TMS work for depression on a long-term basis is an individual process. After the initial 4 to 6 weeks of treatment, an evaluation will explore the effectiveness of the process. An adjustment of the magnetic impulse levels and additional treatments may be necessary. However, in a short period, successful results are commonly noticeable.
Aftercare is essential after treatments cease. Monitoring patient progress to ensure continuing and lasting benefits is vital. Long-term management of mental health treatment can adjust to provide for the success of TMS treatments. With a 70 to 80% success rate, the effectiveness of this procedure is a unique new tool in treating mental health conditions.
Find Effective Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression in Tennessee
Never give up hope for a successful treatment. It’s imperative to explore innovative new treatment options at Healthy Minds in Tennessee to find relief for your mental health condition. Take the opportunity to receive the relief you have been hoping for. See improvements quickly and work with an understanding and compassionate staff.
Contact the center for more information on obtaining an assessment and evaluation.
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